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A national park area
Boston Harbor Islands

FAQs . . . About Overnight Stays

 

Is there lodging in the park?
Campsites are the only overnight accommodations provided by the park. Visitor accommodations are abundant in the Greater Boston area. Contact the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau (www.bostonusa.com) for information about the 250 hotels, B&Bs and guest houses in the region. Call 888-SEE-BOSTON (888-733-2678).

Can we go camping on the Islands?
Camping is available on three islands, by permit only. Lovells, Grape, and Bumpkin Islands all have individual and group sites.

Does the National Parks Pass cover camping fees?
No, the America the Beautiful Pass (National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass) does not cover permit fees, such as camping, or transportation and parking.

What if there is an emergency while camping overnight on an island?
The Islands are staffed 24-hours-a-day during the camping season. Staff can contact emergency services if necessary.

Can we have a campfire on the island? Are there stoves?
Grills are available at some picnic areas on the islands that campers may use. Visitors may also bring their own charcoal grill or cook stove. Open pit fires are not allowed at campsites. Campfires are allowed only on the beach below high tide line. Bring your own firewood or charcoal.

What is the camping like?
Camping is primitive on the islands. There is no water, electricity, telephones, or concessions (e.g., food or supplies) available on camping islands. There is limited cell phone reception, and a "pack-in, pack-out" policy.

How long can I stay at a campsite?
Two continuous weeks is the maximum time allotted to camp. The camping season begins Memorial Day weekend and ends on Labor Day weekend.

How many campsites does each island have?
The number of individual and group campsites on each island are: Lovells, 3 family and 1 group; Grape, 10 family and 1 group; and Bumpkin, 10 family and 1 group.

How do I get my equipment to my campsite?
You will have to carry all personal equipment on your own. Most campsites are a short walk from the dock. The topography of the islands is fairly level and paths are well marked; some are paved.

 

- Boston lodging
 
This site brought to you by Boston Harbor Island Alliance and National Park Service